FBCC - Second Serving

Judges 19:2–15 A Nation Without a King: Rejection, Deception, and the Need for Christ The book of Judges reveals the tragic consequences of rejecting God's rule. In Judges 19:2–15, we witness the next stage of Israel’s collapse — a slow and devastating descent into darkness that calls us to examine our hearts before the true King, Jesus Christ. Introduction The life of unrighteousness stems from the rejection of God. By the time we reach Judges 19, Israel has drifted so far from God's covenant that they are only one domino away from one of the most horrific accounts of human wickedness recorded in Scripture — and it is not committed by foreign nations, but by "God’s own people." The narrative opens with a Levite — a man set apart to lead the people in holiness — who has become thoroughly shaped by cultural compromise. Outwardly clothed in religious appearance, inwardly he is ruled by selfish desires. His story warns us: rejecting God's kingship does not ...

Jesus’ Authority to Forgive Sins Mark 2:1–12 Introduction: Seeing Clearly Have you ever looked at a picture and, at first, only saw one thing—but the longer you studied it, the real image started to appear? Not like an inkblot where you see whatever you want, but a clear design that reveals something specific when examined closely. This passage in Mark 2:1–12 is just like that. At first, people saw a miracle—but when we look closer, we see something greater: the identity and authority of Jesus, the one who has the power to forgive sins. Background & Context Jesus had returned to Capernaum, and word spread quickly that He was home. So many people gathered that there was no room left—not even at the door. In the middle of the crowd, four men carried a paralyzed friend, hoping to get him close to Jesus. When they couldn’t reach Him, they climbed up, removed part of the roof, and lowered the man down. Jesus saw their faith and said, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” That stat...

Resurrected for What Purpose? The Kingdom Announced, the Resurrection Promised Jesus began His public ministry proclaiming the arrival of God's kingdom ( Mark 1:14–15 ). This kingdom could be entered through repentance and faith, and that same gospel message has been entrusted to the church. The promise is not merely spiritual renewal, but bodily resurrection—eternal life with God on a restored earth. Many have heard the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, but few live as if it determines their future. The resurrection is not just a chapter in Christian history; it is the decisive truth about where the world is headed and who will dwell in it. If we believe it, it must shape everything about how we live today. Mark 1:14–15 "Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, 'The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.'" 1. Hope That Rests on Resurrectio...

When There Was No King: Tribes and Groups Glossary When There Was No King: Tribes and Groups Glossary Tribe of Dan Contextual Summary from Judges: The tribe of Dan struggled to settle in their allotted territory and instead chose an easier conquest in Laish. They adopted idolatry and stole Micah’s idols and priest, setting up a false religion that lasted for generations. Who were they, and what role did they play in the book of Judges? Dan was a tribe of Israel that failed to conquer its land and instead took over Laish by violence. What were the key decisions, actions, or failures they are known for? They gave up their God-given inheritance, stole idols, and established illegitimate worship. What does their life or behavior reveal about the state of Israel at the time? Israel preferred convenience over obedience and trusted in human strength over God's promises. What specific failure or flaw...

When There Was No King: Significant Individuals When There Was No King: Significant Individuals Glossary Delilah Contextual Summary from Judges: Delilah appears in Judges 16 as the woman Samson loved, but she repeatedly betrayed him for silver. She manipulated him to uncover the secret of his strength and ultimately turned him over to the Philistines. Who were they, and what role did they play in the book of Judges? Delilah was a Philistine woman whom Samson loved. She conspired with the Philistines to capture him. What were the key decisions, actions, or failures they are known for? She repeatedly pressured Samson to reveal his secret and ultimately sold him out for silver. What does their life or behavior reveal about the state of Israel at the time? Even Israel’s deliverers gave their hearts to enemies of God. What specific failure or flaw is evident in their character or leadership? ...

Othniel Contextual Summary from Judges: Othniel appears in Judges 3:7–11 as the first judge raised up by God after Israel turns to idolatry. He is from the tribe of Judah and is introduced without scandal or complication. His leadership is marked by obedience to God, and the land has peace for forty years. His story stands out for its simplicity and clarity, serving as a model of faithful deliverance before the book descends into cycles of deeper moral failure. Who was he, and what role did he play in the book of Judges? Othniel was the first judge of Israel after the death of Joshua’s generation. He served as a deliverer raised by God to rescue Israel from the oppression of Cushan-rishathaim, king of Mesopotamia. What were the key decisions, actions, or failures he is known for? Othniel responded faithfully to God's call, led Israel to military victory, and judged Israel during a time of peace. Unlike other judges, there is no recorded mor...

Judges 19:1 A Levite of the Culture Introduction I enjoy viewing events through the lens of a “domino effect.” Seeing how one moment leads into another over time helps us trace the true weight and consequence of sin. The final three chapters of Judges—chapters 19 through 21—are not separate accounts but one continuous story. A Levite, corrupted by culture, responds to wickedness with wickedness. An entire tribe demands justice while ignoring their own guilt. And mercy, when finally extended, is laced with cruelty. These events reflect what happens when sinful men attempt to define righteousness apart from God. This section opens the downward spiral with a single act: a Levite, meant to represent God’s holiness and covenant faithfulness, takes for himself a concubine from Bethlehem. It may appear innocent or even justified in human eyes, but God’s Word makes clear—this is not love, covenant, or faithfulness. It is cultural compromise. And it sets the tone for the tragic unraveling t...

Judges 18:27–31 When False Worship Feels Like Success Introduction This section of the text serves as an important reminder for our church. We are experiencing positive changes as a community, with opportunities for clarity in our direction, greater visibility within the parish, and deeper connections among us. As we embrace these developments, let’s ensure that we keep the vision that Jesus inspires at the heart of all our actions. It's essential that we stay focused on this vision, even if the immediate outcomes don't align with our expectations. By doing so, we can build a stronger, more united community grounded in faith. 1. How Will We Determine Success? Judges 18:27–29 – “But the people of Dan took what Micah had made, and the priest who belonged to him, and they came to Laish, to a people quiet and unsuspecting, and struck them with the edge of the sword and burned the city with fire. And there was no deliverer because it was far from Sidon, and they had no dealin...

Judges 18:21-26 When Idols Need Saving Introduction Idols do not offer salvation. As we near the end of Micah's account, we observe him having to save the very idol he worshipped. The irony is striking: what he trusted, served, and placed his confidence in required him to take action to prevent it from being taken into captivity. When we examine this account critically, it enhances our appreciation for the person of Christ, in whom we can truly trust for our own salvation. Outline Verses 21–24 – A Defense and Confrontation Over the Idol of Micah Verses 25–26 – An Idol That Did Not Save 1. A Defense and Confrontation Over the Idol of Micah (18:21–24) Micah gathers his neighbors to confront the Danites after they steal his idols and his priest. He is not simply grieving the loss of property—he has lost the god he believed would bless him. In anguish he cries out, “You take my gods that I made... and what have I left?” (Judges 18:24). His sorrow reveals the heart of...